Tennessee Technological University: Is It Worth It?

Graduate earnings, costs, and ROI analysis with federal data

By Appffeine Research Team · Updated February 11, 2026

Overview

Tennessee Technological University is located in Cookeville, TN. This comprehensive ROI analysis uses federal IRS W-2 earnings data to help you understand what graduates from Tennessee Technological University actually earn.

Data last updated: February 11, 2026

| Key Metric | Value | |------------|-------| | Median Graduate Earnings | $48,501 | | In-State Tuition | $10,084 | | Out-of-State Tuition | $20,116 | | Acceptance Rate | 83.2% | | Graduation Rate | 54.2% | | Student Population | 8,495 |

Graduate Earnings

According to federal data from IRS W-2 records, the median annual earnings for Tennessee Technological University graduates is $48,501 measured 10 years after initial enrollment.

This earnings figure represents graduates who received federal financial aid and had W-2 earnings reported to the IRS.

How This Compares

Compare Tennessee Technological University's graduate earnings to:

  • [Similar schools in TN](/schools/tn)
  • [Schools with similar admission rates](/compare)
  • [National averages by major](/majors)

Cost Breakdown

Understanding the true cost of attending Tennessee Technological University:

| Cost Component | In-State | Out-of-State | |----------------|----------|--------------| | Tuition & Fees | $10,084 | $20,116 | | Room & Board | $10,502 | $10,502 | | 4-Year Total (Est.) | $82,344 | $122,472 |

Note: Actual costs may vary. Financial aid can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

ROI Analysis

To calculate your personal ROI:

  • Estimate your total cost after financial aid
  • Compare to median earnings of $48,501
  • Consider your specific major (earnings vary significantly)
  • Factor in opportunity costs of 4 years of study
[Calculate Your Personal ROI →](/tools/roi-calculator)

Top Majors at Tennessee Technological University

The highest-earning majors at Tennessee Technological University typically include:

  • Engineering and Computer Science programs
  • Business and Finance degrees
  • Healthcare and Nursing programs
[See earnings by major at Tennessee Technological University →](/school/tennessee-technological-university/majors)

Similar Schools to Consider

Based on size, selectivity, and location, you might also consider:

  • Schools in TN with similar outcomes
  • Institutions with comparable admission rates
  • Universities with strong programs in your intended major
[Compare with similar schools →](/compare)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Tennessee Technological University worth the tuition?

With median graduate earnings of $48,501 and an out-of-state 4-year cost of approximately $122,472, the payback period depends on your financial aid package and chosen major.

What percentage of Tennessee Technological University students graduate?

The graduation rate at Tennessee Technological University is 54.2%, which is below the national average.

How competitive is admission to Tennessee Technological University?

Tennessee Technological University has an acceptance rate of 83.2% with an average SAT score of 1148.

---

Add Tennessee Technological University to Your College List

Track deadlines, compare costs, and see how Tennessee Technological University fits your college plan. Appffeine pulls federal earnings data so you can make an informed decision.

Limited time: Free-for-1-Year access for early families — full access to all features, unlimited schools, and family collaboration included. Spots are limited.

[Add to My List →](/api/login)

---

This page uses data from the U.S. Department of Education's College Scorecard API. Earnings data reflects median annual earnings for students who received federal financial aid, measured 10 years after enrollment.